Name: Shinnyo Okinawa Lantern Floating 2026 on Oct 24 | Ginowan Tropical Beach
Start: 2026-10-24T15:30:00+09:00
End: 2026-10-24T15:30:00+09:00
Location: 沖縄コンベンションセンター

The "Shinnyo Okinawa Lantern Floating" event will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Ginowan Tropical Beach in Ginowan City, Okinawa.

The Spirit of "Eko" in Lantern Floating

This event is part of Shinnyo-en's traditional lantern floating ceremonies held worldwide, with the Okinawa event taking place annually since 2013. The practice, which began in 1936, embodies "Eko," the spirit of directing compassion for people and nature towards others. Participants write their wishes, prayers, or messages for loved ones on lanterns, which are then offered before Buddhist images, with the hope that these sentiments reach all living beings across past, present, and future.

Participation and Schedule

On the day of the event, participants can receive a "lantern kit" (paper, boat, light) at a tent on the beach. After inscribing their thoughts, the lanterns can be floated on the sea. Lantern reception is open from 15:30 to 19:30. While the main ceremony begins at 17:30, individuals can start floating their lanterns from 15:30. The lantern floating concludes at 20:00.

Environmental Considerations and Notes

Environmental conservation is a key aspect of this event; all floated lanterns are collected, cleaned, and reused for the following year. The lanterns are made from FSC-certified cypress wood. Attendees are advised to wear clothing and sandals that can get wet, as they will be near the sea. Participants are also requested to take their trash home with them.

Access and Parking

Venue: Ginowan Tropical Beach, 4-2-1 Mashiki, Ginowan City, Okinawa (Postal Code: 901-2224).
Nearest Stations: Yui Rail Kenchomae Station / Makishi Station (transfer to bus).
Parking: Available at the beach, Ginowan Port Marina, and Okinawa Convention Center (partial). Please note that some parking areas may be unavailable due to other events. Guidance will be provided by staff.